Indonesia is an increasingly popular destination for business travellers, and for good reason. With a population of over 270 million people and a rapidly growing economy, the country offers a wealth of opportunities for entrepreneurs, investors, and professionals. However, before you can take advantage of these opportunities, you’ll need to obtain a business visa. The process can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the requirements and procedures involved. That’s why we’ve put together this step-by-step guide to help you navigate the Indonesian business visa process with ease. Whether you’re travelling to Indonesia for meetings, conferences, or to explore potential business partnerships, our guide will help you understand what you need to do to obtain the necessary documentation to make your trip a success.
What Is an Indonesian Business Visa?
An Indonesian business visa is a type of visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Indonesia for the purpose of conducting business activities. This visa is typically valid for a period of up to 60 days, although it can be extended for up to 6 months. To obtain a business visa for Indonesia, applicants must provide evidence of their business activities, such as a letter of invitation from an Indonesian company, proof of sufficient financial means to support their stay, and a valid passport. The visa is often used by foreign entrepreneurs, investors, and business executives who wish to establish or expand their business operations in Indonesia. The requirements for obtaining a business visa in Indonesia may vary depending on the individual’s country of origin, so it is recommended to check with the Indonesian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.
Indonesian Business visa’s scope of activities
An Indonesian business visa allows foreign nationals to engage in a wide range of business activities while in the country. This can include:
- Attending meetings and conferences
- Signing contracts or agreements
- Establishing a business or investing in Indonesia
- Conducting market research
- Participating in exhibitions or trade fairs
- Providing training or consulting services
- Conducting audits or inspections
It’s important to note that an Indonesian business visa does not allow the holder to work as an employee for a company in Indonesia. If you plan to work in Indonesia, you will need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a work permit or a temporary stay permit.
Who needs a business visa to visit Indonesia?
A business visa to Indonesia is required for foreign nationals who wish to conduct business activities in Indonesia for a short or long-term period. This includes individuals who are:
- Engaging in business negotiations or attending business meetings
- Setting up or expanding a business operation in Indonesia
- Representing a foreign company in Indonesia
- Participating in trade shows or exhibitions
- Engaging in other business-related activities in Indonesia
When will you need a business Visa?
An Indonesian business visa is required for individuals who plan to engage in business activities in Indonesia, such as attending meetings, negotiating contracts, or participating in trade fairs. The specific requirements for obtaining an Indonesian business visa can vary depending on the length of your stay and the type of business activities you plan to undertake.
Some of the general requirements for an Indonesian business visa are:
- A valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration
- A completed visa application form
- A recent passport-size photograph
- A letter of invitation from an Indonesian company or organization
- Proof of financial support (such as a bank statement)
- Proof of onward/return travel
It’s important to check with the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country for specific information on the requirements for an Indonesian business visa and the necessary documents that should be submitted with the application. Also, it’s always best to apply for a visa well in advance of your intended travel date.
Read More: How to Choose a Trustworthy Visa Agent in Bali
Types of business visas in Indonesia
1. Visa on arrival
The Indonesian visa on arrival (VOA) is a type of visa that allows travellers from certain countries to enter Indonesia for a limited period of time (usually 30 or 60 days) without obtaining a visa prior to their trip. Instead, travellers can apply for and receive the visa upon arrival at one of Indonesia’s designated international airports.
2. Single-entry business visa
A single-entry business visa for Indonesia is a type of business visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Indonesia for a single trip for business purposes. The validity of a single-entry business visa is typically limited to the duration of the individual’s stay in Indonesia and they are not permitted to re-enter the country once they have left.
3. Multiple-entry business visa
A multiple-entry business visa for Indonesia is a type of business visa that allows foreign nationals to enter and exit Indonesia multiple times for business purposes within a specified period of time. This type of visa is typically valid for 1 year and can be extended for up to 2 years, allowing the individual to make multiple trips to Indonesia for business purposes. Currently, the multiple-entry business visa is unavailable because of COVID-19 pandemic and it has not been available ever since.
Steps for obtaining an Indonesian business visa
The process for obtaining an Indonesian business visa can vary depending on the country where the applicant is located and the type of visa they are applying for. However, generally, the steps for obtaining an Indonesian business visa are as follows:
- Check the visa requirements: Before applying for an Indonesian business visa, make sure to check the specific requirements and documents needed for the type of visa you’re applying for, as well as the fees associated with the visa.
- Gather the required documents: These include a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a recent passport-size photograph, a letter of invitation from an Indonesian company or organisation, a letter of sponsorship, proof of financial support, and proof of onward/return travel.
- Submit the visa application: Submit your visa application and required documents to the Indonesian embassy or consulate in your country. Some embassies may require an online application as well.
- Pay the visa fee: Pay the visa fee as required by the embassy or consulate.
- Wait for the visa to be processed: After submitting the visa application and fee, the embassy or consulate will process the visa application. The processing time can vary depending on the embassy or consulate and the type of visa you’re applying for.
- Collect the visa: Once the visa has been processed, you will be notified and you can collect the visa, which is usually stamped on your passport.
- Make sure you have all the necessary documents to enter Indonesia: This includes visa, valid passport, return or onward ticket and proof of sufficient funds.
The Indonesian visa policy changes and the process of obtaining a business visa might be different. Therefore, it’s always best to check the official website of the Indonesian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information or consult with a visa agent.
Indonesian Business Visa fees
1. Visa on Arrival
The cost for the Indonesian visa-on-arrival (VOA) is 500.000 IDR which can be paid at the locket when you arrived at one of the ports in Indonesia. Since January 2023, you can now apply for Electronic Visa on Arrival through the official Indonesian immigration at https://molina.imigrasi.go.id/
2. Single-entry visa
For the single entry business visa to enter Indonesia will cost IDR 2.000.000
3. Multiple-entry visa
For the multiple entry visa to enter Indonesia will cost IDR 2.000.000. However, the multiple-entry business visa is still currently unavailable due to the pandemic.
Indonesian business visa extension
In Indonesia, a business visa can be extended for up to 6 months beyond the initial 60-day validity period. The process for extending a business visa involves submitting an application to the Immigration Office, along with relevant documents such as a sponsor letter, a valid passport, and a statement of purpose. It is important to apply for an extension before the current visa expires, as overstaying can result in penalties or even deportation. The processing time for a business visa extension can vary, so it is recommended to apply well in advance to avoid any issues.
Read More: Bali Visa Rules: How to Avoid Deportation & Stress-free Stay
Seven Stones Indonesia can help you in processing Business Visa in Indonesia
Don’t let the complex business visa application process hold you back from expanding your business globally. Let our team of experts handle the tedious work for you. Seven Stones Indonesia has years of experience and a proven track record of success, we are able to provide a smooth and efficient service. Apply for your business visa with us today! Experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your application is in good hands by sending us an email at hello@sevenstonesindonesia.com
